Malaysia: Thorough Study On Erosion Of Beaches And River Banks To Be Done

Bernama 9 Apr 12;

SANTUBONG, April 9 (Bernama) -- The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry will carry out a thorough study on the problem of erosion of beaches and river banks, particularly in populated areas, nationwide.

Its minister Datuk Seri Douglas Uggah Embas said among the main causal factors were rising sea levels due to the global climate change, affecting low-lying areas near beaches and rivers.

"The study will identify coastal areas and river banks which are at risk of erosion, especially heavily-populated areas," he said after visiting a wave breaker project in Kampung Santubong, here, Monday.

Uggah said besides the coastal areas of the Malaysian peninsula, focus would also be given to the coastal areas of Sarawak and Sabah, especially in Miri, Limbang, Bintulu and Santubong, and the banks of the two states' main rivers.

He said the government was prepared to provide a big allocation to overcome the problem.

-- BERNAMA